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Discover Hokianga

Experience the natural beauty of this unique region and hear legends of the Hokianga from local guides

Tour Description >>

Useful Info >>

Journey into a unique part of New Zealand, first discovered by Kupe the voyager. Visit the 2.8 million year old Wairere Boulders and the Waipoua Forest, and meet a national icon, the mighty kauri tree Tāne Mahuta on a full-day tour from Paihia.

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Highlights

Follow the original stagecoach trail

Meet the giant kauri tree Tane Mahuta in the Waipoua Forest

Visit the Wairere Boulders

Learn about the history and culture of the region

Tour Description

Experience an unforgettable journey into a unique part of New Zealand on a Hokianga day tour. Step back in time to an era of horse and cart, a time when kauri logging and gum digging were the main industries, and the region was being settled by missionaries and the first Europeans.

Travel from Paihia to Hokianga along the old stagecoach route, a trail originally marked out by early Māori and then frequented by traders and merchants who transported supplies, kauri, gum and timber between the coasts. Early European settlers in the Hokianga formed some of the country’s oldest colonies.

Uncover 2.8 million year old geological rock formations as you wind along the walkways of the unique Wairere Boulder Valley. View thousands of massive basalt boulders, some over 30 metres high, in a primeval landscape.

Hear the story of the Māori voyager Kupe, believed to be the first to discover New Zealand over 1,000 years ago when he paddled into the Hokianga harbour. Your local Māori guide will give you a unique and in-depth understanding of the many myths and legends of the local hapu (sub-tribe).

The Waipoua Kauri Forest provides a natural stage for an unforgettable encounter. Meet a national icon, the mighty Tane Mahuta (the Lord of the Forest), the largest known kauri tree in the world. Estimated to be 2,000 years old, his mighty girth is over 13 metres and he stands an impressive 51 metres tall. Stand beneath this ancient giant and hear the legend of how he separated earth and sky at the beginning of the world.

STAFFTIP

'Hokianga is one of my favourite places. It’s special and different &ndash a little bit of magic.' - Jo, Sales executive

Useful Info

BRING: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, walking shoes, camera and warm clothing. HEAR: A full commentary is provided by your driver and guides. The Māori language is spoken at key points throughout the journey, with English interpretation provided. EAT: Refreshment stops are made for morning and afternoon tea (own expense). Enjoy a pub lunch at Opononi Hotel (own expense). AVAILABILITY: This tour departs Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.